It’s a super-sized success for Warner Bros.’ latest Superman film—and one local actress is at the heart of it.
Neva Howell, a veteran actress from Dade County, is earning national attention for her heartfelt portrayal of Martha Kent, Superman’s adoptive mother, in the blockbuster film that soared to the top of the box office this weekend.
The film, released nationwide on July 11, opened to an impressive $56.5 million on Friday alone, following $22.5 million in Thursday previews. Industry experts now estimate the movie will gross nearly $130 million domestically in its opening weekend—far exceeding early projections of $90 million.
Fueled by strong word-of-mouth, the film has been warmly received by critics and audiences alike, earning an 82% critic score on Rotten Tomatoes and an audience rating of 95% on the site’s Popcornmeter.
For Howell, who has spent over three decades building a career in television and film, the success is especially sweet. “If I’m going to be in a Superman film, I’m so glad it’s this one,” she said ahead of the release. “It has so much heart—a beautiful, beautiful heart. I’m proud to be part of this particular Superman.”
Howell’s acting credits include roles in The Originals, Ned’s Declassified School Survival Guide, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. She studied acting in New York and spent years in Los Angeles before returning to her roots in Georgia.
Her casting as Ma Kent came after an unexpected call from the film’s director and writer, James Gunn. “He called me over and said, ‘I don’t want you to have to wait. We want you to be our Ma,’” Howell recalled. “I was so shocked.”
To prepare for the role, Howell studied a recording of a Kansas farmer’s wife to capture the spirit of the iconic character. “I also combined traits from my grandmother, a stern Christian woman, and my mother, who was gentle and loving,” she said.
Scenes from the film were shot in Georgia, including at Trilith Studios, Macon’s Terminal Station, and in LaGrange—further tying the film’s success to Howell’s home state. Georgia’s blend of historic charm and cinematic scenery played a key role in bringing the world of Superman to life.
Now, with the film drawing massive crowds and Howell’s performance gaining praise from fans, the actress is reflecting on what this moment could mean for her career. “I know how much Ma Kent means to fans,” she said. “I didn’t take this role lightly. If they like her—if they really embrace her—my life might just change.”
And by the looks of the opening weekend, it already has.